Renault teams up with French defense firm to build drones for Ukraine

The Financial Times reported the information.

The French automaker announced Tuesday it would leverage its industrial manufacturing capabilities to support drone production, though it declined to disclose financial details or production volumes for the project.

"We were contacted for our production and creative industrial expertise. This project is ongoing and is led by the defence ministry. We confirm our participation in this project, at the request of the state," Renault director Fabrice Cambolive told broadcaster BFM Business.

The partnership follows a June appeal from the French government urging automotive and defense companies to collaborate on establishing drone manufacturing lines. Drones have become critical to Ukraine's military operations, enabling the country to counter Russian advances and conduct strikes on strategic targets within Russian territory.

This marks a return to defense production for Renault, which historically manufactured military equipment including tanks deployed during both world wars.

Neither Renault nor Cambolive would confirm whether the drones would serve offensive, defensive, or surveillance purposes. The specific manufacturing sites have yet to be announced.

Turgis Gaillard, founded in 2011, employs approximately 400 workers and generates €80 million in annual revenue. The company produces the AAROK, a 20-meter medium-altitude long-endurance drone capable of transporting nearly three tonnes of fuel, weaponry, or equipment.

The collaboration highlights the contrasting trajectories of Europe's automotive and defense sectors. While arms manufacturers have seen surging demand amid increased continental defense spending, car companies face mounting challenges from the transition to electric vehicles and intensifying Chinese competition.